Take a look at the Yin-Yang House characterized by wonderful serene environment with an accent on public family space. Located in a peaceful neighborhood in Venice, California, the fantastic 4700 square feet residence was designed by Brooks + Scarpa Architects and it totally meets the client’s needs. They wanted a house for raising a large and growing family with several children, with plenty of space for family time, but also for socializing with their friends. Having this objective in mind, the architects envisioned a beautiful airy, tranquil and relaxed environment, that eliminates the standard space distribution and provides the the inhabitants a great and improved experience on all levels: architecturally, environmentally, emotionally, spiritually and pshilosophically.
Facing the street, the Ying-Yang House is a two-story volume which appears massive, with a modern architecture. Large, welcoming open areas favours a subtly transition between outdoors and indoors, giving a feel of freedom and breeziness. A series of courtyards and other outdoor spaces surrounds the residence, being designed for entertainment. In this way, the owners can host many guests without the feeling of being overcharged. The outdoor spaces with a large swimming pool for sunny days are perfect social areas for teenagers and their friends. A 50 foot sliding glass door connects the main courtyard with the modern decorated living space. A minimalist wonderful kitchen plays an important role in the home design, having an open working area where the owner can chat with guests while cooking. The area features a dining place as well as a breakfast room that overlooks the courtyard and the guest room/kids playroom, establishing a visual connection while defining the separation of uses. In this way, the children can be observed by adults while they play outdoors or do homework in the office. In order to have larger spaces for socializing, the other rooms like bedrooms are made quite small and simple.
The architects used recycled materials in most of the cases like composite stone, bamboo, tile for countertops and bathroom finishes too. The house roof has a series of eco-friendly features to increase the performance of the house’s heating and cooling: green roof, blown-in cellulose insulation, radiant heating, 12 KW solar photovoltaic panel system which ensures shade from the sun, preventing it from becoming overheated.
Photos © John Linden via @contemporist.com
Project details:
Project name: Yin-Yang House
Location: Venice, CA
Architects: Brooks + Scarpa Architects, Inc. (architect) – Lawrence Scarpa, FAIA, Lead Designer, Emily Hodgdon, Ching Luk,
Project Team: Glen Lyons Contractor M & M Solar (Solar Engineering/Installation)
Size: 4700 square feet
Date: 2011